Magnesium Oxide and Magnesium Glycinate

What are the natural sources of Magnesium?

Magnesium is an essential mineral required to maintain good health. It is found in a variety of nutrient-dense foods which include nuts seeds fruits and vegetables. The best sources are :

• whole, unrefined grains
• green leafy vegetables such as spinach
• fruits such as avocados, bananas, etc
• dark chocolate with high cocoa content
• fish
• nuts and seeds

Which is better absorbed by the body, Magnesium Oxide or Magnesium Glycinate?

Compared to magnesium oxide, magnesium glycinate is better absorbed by the body due to its bioavailability and high absorption rate. Magnesium glycinate is a chelated form of magnesium in which magnesium is bonded with glycine, an amino acid that acts as a chelating agent which helps in the proper absorption and bioavailability of magnesium. Magnesium oxide, on the other hand, has low bioavailability and low absorption which is why it is less absorbed by the body.  

What are the common uses of Magnesium Glycinate?

Magnesium glycinate is commonly used as a dietary supplement to provide magnesium to the body. Magnesium is an essential mineral that plays an important role in the proper functioning of the body. Magnesium glycinate is used to relieve stress and anxiety as it is believed to have a calming effect on the nervous system. As a magnesium supplement, magnesium glycinate improves bone health, improves blood flow, and also reduces the risk of heart diseases. 

What are the common uses of Magnesium Oxide?

Magnesium Oxide is commonly used as a dietary supplement to meet the daily needs of magnesium requirement of the body. Magnesium oxide is popularly used as an antacid, as it neutralizes stomach acid and provides relief from indigestion and other digestive problems. Magnesium oxide is used to treat constipation, as it has a laxative effect on the body.

What are the side effects of Magnesium Oxide and Magnesium Glycinate?

Magnesium oxide and magnesium glycinate both are safe supplements if taken as directed. However, some individuals may experience side effects from taking these supplements, if overdosed. If taken more than prescribed then Magnesium oxide and magnesium glycinate both can cause diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. Magnesium oxide can cause dehydration in the body if taken in high doses as it draws water into the intestines leading to increased water loss. 

Difference Between Magnesium Oxide and Magnesium Glycinate: Magnesium is the eighth most abundant element and equals about  2% of the earth’s crust and typically 0.12% of seawater. Magnesium is an abundant mineral present in the human body, it is also available as a dietary supplement (Magnesium oxide and Magnesium glycinate). Magnesium is an essential mineral that is required for energy production, bone development, and also for the synthesis of DNA, and RNA. In this article we will discuss the properties and uses of magnesium oxide and magnesium glycinate: